# Pierre Moncuit Vieille Vigne Cuvée Nicole Moncuit Blanc de Blanc Extra Brut (2008)

- **Producer:** Pierre Moncuit
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** sparkling
- **Grapes:** Chardonnay
- **Region:** Champagne, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 12.5%
- **Average price:** €130
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 10–12 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** grapefruit, peach, apple, lemon, butter, brioche, pastry, biscuit, hazelnut, honey, almond

## About this wine

The Pierre Moncuit Vieille Vigne Cuvée Nicole Moncuit Blanc de Blanc Extra Brut 2008 is a single-varietal Chardonnay from the Grand Cru village of Le Mesnil-sur-Oger in Champagne, France. This cuvée is produced by the Pierre Moncuit estate, a family-run winery with a history dating back to 1889. It is named in honor of Nicole Moncuit, who has been integral to the winemaking process. The wine is distinguished by its sourcing from old vines (Vieille Vigne) and its expression of the Côte des Blancs terroir. The 2008 vintage is noted for its balance of ripeness and acidity.

## Interesting facts

- The wine is named in honor of Nicole Moncuit, a key figure in the estate's winemaking since 1982.
- Sourced from 'Vieille Vigne' (old vines), some over 90-100 years old.
- The estate avoids oak, preferring stainless steel to preserve Chardonnay's purity.
- The 2008 vintage received a 98-point rating from James Suckling.

## Food pairing

The wine's high acidity and minerality cut through the richness of seafood and creamy sauces, while its complexity can stand up to more refined dishes. The subtle notes in the wine can complement the delicate flavors of fish and shellfish.

## Wine making process

The Pierre Moncuit Vieille Vigne Cuvée Nicole Moncuit Blanc de Blanc Extra Brut 2008 is produced from 100% Chardonnay grapes. The estate employs reasoned viticulture, avoiding pesticides and herbicides, and practices hand-harvesting and sorting. Fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks, followed by full malolactic fermentation. The wine undergoes extended aging on its lees, contributing to its complexity. The dosage is Extra Brut, typically around 3-5g/L. The estate's philosophy centers on expressing the purity of Chardonnay from its specific terroir.